Kidnap and Ransom

News, information and statistics about kidnap for ransom activities. Data about the security threat is collected from intelligence reports, security companies, kidnap for ransom insurance brokers, hostage negotiators and other public information.

In 2009, many human smuggling operations have turned into kidnap and ransom cases as smugglers attempt to increase their revenues from people wishing to be smuggled. According to the Washington Post, over 1,000 people have been rescued by US authorities after a family member contacts the police.

It is believed that many do not contact law enforcement due to their illegal immigration status.

According to information compiled by the Guardian Newspaper, 470 children were kidnapped by estranged parents in 2008. The key season for abductions were during the summer months, where children go away on vacations and never return.